The origin of the Universe, with Prof Thomas Hertog
When the University of Leuven professor of theoretical physics Thomas Hertog first met famed cosmologist Stephen Hawking he found himself confronted with two questions: “Why is the Universe the way it...
6 Apr 202332min
How human disease changed history, with Dr Jonathan Kennedy
Over time, we have become infected with various viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms, which have had a huge impact on our evolution and history. In this episode, Dr Jonathan Kennedy, a reader in...
2 Apr 202329min
Art and the brain, with Susan Magsamen
At one time or another it’s likely that we’ve all experienced the profound effect that engaging with art can have on us. Be it listening to a favourite song, reading a moving poem or walking around a ...
30 Mar 202332min
Overcoming insomnia, with Prof Guy Leschziner
If you suffer from insomnia, you’ve probably heard the same old advice before: don’t drink caffeine in the afternoon, get plenty of exercise during the day, and don’t take your phone to bed. But what ...
26 Mar 202337min
UK wildlife, with Dr Philip Wheeler
BBC’s Wild Isles, presented by Sir David Attenborough, is currently showing on Sunday evenings. The series showcases British wildlife, shining a light on some of the animals and plants we share our is...
24 Mar 202327min
When humans become prey, with Adam Hart
What happens when fearsome predators like tigers, lions and crocodiles live alongside humans? Ecologist Adam Hart explores how conservation works when the species we want to protect also happens to be...
20 Mar 202337min
Key lessons from the world’s longest happiness study, with Prof Robert Waldinger
What are the most important, achievable things you can do to live a happier life? It’s a big question that’s been researched for many years by Robert Waldinger. He’s a professor of psychiatry at Harva...
17 Mar 202338min
Social anxiety, with Dr Ellen Hendriksen
Research suggests that – unless you’re a psychopath – you’ve experienced anxiety about a social situation at some point. But why? What is it that makes humans afraid of others? And how can we manage t...
13 Mar 202338min
